How Many Colonies Signed The American Declaration Of Independence?

The American Declaration of Independence, signed on July 4, 1776, marked a pivotal moment in American history. It was a document that declared the thirteen American colonies as independent states, free from British rule. But exactly how many colonies signed this significant document?

At the time the Declaration of Independence was signed, there were thirteen colonies in total. These colonies were: Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.

All thirteen colonies participated in the drafting and approval of the Declaration of Independence, but not all signed it on July 4, 1776. The document was first approved by the Continental Congress on that date, and it was then sent to John Dunlap, who printed copies of the declaration. These copies were distributed among the thirteen colonies for signing.

Initially, only John Hancock, the President of the Continental Congress, and Charles Thomson, the Secretary, signed the document on July 4. It wasn't until August 2, 1776, that most of the other delegates added their signatures. However, due to various circumstances, not all representatives signed immediately. Some signed later, while others signed an engrossed copy of the declaration at a later date.

Ultimately, a total of fifty-six delegates from the thirteen colonies signed the American Declaration of Independence. The last signature was added in January 1777 by Thomas McKean of Delaware. Each delegate's signature on the declaration was a bold act of defiance against British rule and a commitment to the cause of independence.

The Declaration of Independence played a crucial role in shaping American history and laying the foundation for the United States of America as we know it today. It symbolizes the courage and determination of the thirteen colonies to establish a new nation, free from British control, and serves as a reminder of the values and principles upon which the United States was built.

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